Yankees win sixth straight, beat Padres 8-5

Frank Franklin II/AP PhotoNew York Yankees' Alex Rodriguez follows through on a home run during the third inning.

Alex Rodriguez homered for the fourth straight game and the Yankees held off the San Diego Padres 8-5 Wednesday night, setting a season high with their sixth consecutive victory.

Darrell Rasner snapped his four-start losing streak, with plenty of help from the Yankees offense and bullpen. The Yankees beat NL Cy Young Award winner Jake Peavy, chasing him after four innings in his second start since coming off the disabled list.

Johnny Damon had three hits and two RBI for the Yankees, who have won 11 of 14 to move a season-best six games above .500. Wilson Betemit also had three hits, and Mariano Rivera worked the ninth for his 19th save in 19 chances.